Understanding U.S. Employment Visa Programs

A comprehensive guide to employment-based visa programs, their intended purposes, and how they impact the American workforce.

Core Immigration Programs

H-1B Visa Program

Intended Role

Designed to allow companies to hire skilled foreign workers in specialized fields.

Common Exploitation

Dominated by outsourcing firms flooding the system with applications.

Optional Practical Training (OPT)

Intended Role

Allows foreign students to gain work experience.

Common Exploitation

Used as a backdoor to H-1B sponsorships.

PERM Labor Certification

Intended Role

Ensures green cards are issued only when no qualified Americans are available.

Common Exploitation

Employers manipulate job ads and requirements.

L-1 Visa Program

Intended Role

Allows transfer of executives or specialized knowledge employees.

Common Exploitation

Used for cheaper labor and offshoring preparation.